Week of April 21, 2026

Israel and Lebanon agreed on a ten-day ceasefire that began on Thursday. Separate conversations were held between US President Trump, Prime Minister (PM) Netanyahu, and Lebanese President Aoun. Both Netanyahu and Aoun were also invited to the White House for the first direct talks between the two countries since 1983.

PM Netanyahu said, “We have changed the balance of security,” asserting that Israel will maintain a security buffer zone that stretches six miles from Israel’s border into southern Lebanon. This buffer zone will last the duration of the ceasefire in order to deter Hezbollah. Hezbollah wanted to make sure that during the ceasefire, Israel was not allowed the freedom of movement, and insisted that the presence of Israeli troops in Lebanon gives the Lebanese the “right to resist.”

Please pray that the ceasefire holds. Please pray for a return to normal life for the civilians of northern Israel and southern Lebanon.

On Friday, the Jerusalem Marathon took place, despite intense security requirements and the inability for many to train properly due to the forty days of Operation Roaring Lion. The original race date in March had been postponed to April. The 15th International Jerusalem Winner Marathon was themed, “Am (People of) Yisrael Runs,” and gathered tens of thousands of runners in different categories. There was the quarter–mile family race, one mile race, three mile race, six mile race, and the half marathon. Organizers said the strong turnout reflected the sense of endurance and unity of the participants who chose to move forward, despite all the challenges.

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion said,

“The International Jerusalem Winner Marathon is much more than a sporting event. It is a reflection of determination, strength, and unity. This year, especially during these challenging times, the participation of thousands of runners from around the world in a shared run through the streets of Jerusalem sends a powerful message of resilience, hope, and the choice to keep living. Jerusalem is proud to host this international event, reminding us all of the power we have when we come together.”

The race closed many streets as runners ran past iconic landmarks like the Knesset, the walls of the Old City, the Sultan’s Pool, Mount Zion, the Germany Colony, and Sacher Park.

Praise God that all the runners were safe during such a large sporting event.

As the sun sets on Tuesday night after 24 hours of ceremonies, memorials, moments of silence, and visits to military cemeteries, Israel’s Memorial Day concludes and its 78th Independence Day begins. During Independence Day, the country will enjoy BBQs, picnics, and a joyful spirit.

In the past year, Israel’s population has grown to 10.244 million, which is 146,000 higher than last year with an increase of 1.4 percent. Within the total population, there are 7.790 million Jewish people and “others” (76 percent) while 2.157 million are Arabs (21.1 percent), and almost 300,000 are foreigners (2.9 percent).

There were 177,000 newborns; 48,000 people passed away, and 21,000 people moved away from Israel. Also, 27 percent of the population are ages 14 and younger, 60 percent are ages 15–64, and 13 percent are 65 and over.

Please pray for Israel’s continued growth and stability for 78 more years!

Nahariya, a city of 68,000 civilians that rests along the coast near the border with Lebanon, has been under aerial bombardment since early March. Just a few miles from the border, it is an easy target for Hezbollah and has received hundreds, if not thousands, of rockets, mortars, and shelling over the years. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) has set up strategic defensive locations in the north, and many military units use this small city as a place of refuge and replenishing. Chosen People Ministries has a small congregation in Nahariya called Or Hagalil (Light to the Galilee), and recently the pastor and a friend went out to meet the soldiers and encourage them. Upon meeting different soldiers, stories were told, encouragement was shared, and the pastor and the friend sometimes asked them if they wanted prayer or words from the Scriptures spoken before they continue on their way. Recently, as a token of thanks, thirty active and reserve duty soldiers received gift vouchers to help them acquire personal supplies. The special gifts came at a very poignant time, and they were grateful to the messianic congregation for their love and support.

Please pray that conversations, prayers, and Bible verses spoken to the soldiers would spark a curiosity and spiritual desire to learn more about the One who gave us all the incredible gift of salvation!

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